TRIBUTES have been paid to a married couple who drowned after plunging into a waterfall at a popular beauty spot in Wales.
Rachael Patching, 33, and wife Helen, 52, were found dead in the river after going missing on the rugged Four Waterfalls Walk in Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales.
The couple – who were married seven years ago – had made the 200 mile journey from Sevenoaks, Kent, for a New Year break.
The inquest heard the provisional cause of death for two women was drowning after falling into the icy water below.
The alarm was raised just before noon on January 4 after a body was seen in the water at Ystradfellte.
Helen's body was found the next day while Rachael's was found about five miles downstream four days later.
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Fire services, mountain rescue and national air support services were involved in a search that spanned five days.
At Pontypridd Coroners Court, usher Catherine Burnell said a member of the public "spotted a body at Spring Lakes campsite between Glynneath and Resolven".
The coroner for south Wales central, Patricia Morgan, sent her "deepest condolences" to the friends and families of both women "at this tragic time".
Families and friends had paid moving tribute to the "selfless" married couple.
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Their family said Rachael and Helen would be remembered for "their endless laughter" and were a "credit to themselves and society".
A family tribute said: “We are devastated to have suffered such an immeasurable loss following the news of Rachael and Helen’s passing at just 33 and 52.
“They were such a devoted, selfless, and loving couple having had an immensely positive impact on all those they met.
“Their love for animals and dedication to caring for them so lovingly over the years made them a truly admirable credit to themselves and society.
“Their endless laughter will be forever remembered by all who had the honour to know them.
“There are no words that can express enough how highly they were both thought of by family members, friends, and colleagues."
The inquest was adjourned until a later date.
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